Broken bridge puts thousands at risk in Bijoynagar

BRAHMANBARIA, Sept 6: A bridge beside the Bijoynagar Upazila Parishad complex in Brahmanbaria has been lying in a dilapidated condition for a long time, with a large hole in its middle making it increasingly dangerous.

Thousands of people from Paharapur Union and surrounding areas use the bridge every day, risking their lives while travelling along the route.

Locals said the road connecting the upazila headquarters with Awlia Bazar in Paharapur Union is an important communication route, used by at least 10,000-15,000 people daily. The large hole and damaged section in the middle of the bridge have raised the risk of accidents involving pedestrians and vehicles.

According to residents, the bridge is an important link not only for people in Paharapur Union but also for those in Bishnupur Union to reach the upazila headquarters. The road is regularly used to transport cash crops, other agricultural produce and various goods from Paharapur.

Hundreds of small and large vehicles cross the bridge every day. The road is also important for transporting bamboo and other goods to and from Paharapur.

Locals alleged that the condition of the bridge is deteriorating further as heavy vehicles, including those carrying bricks, regularly use it.

The dilapidated bridge has caused serious inconvenience to residents, students, traders and vehicle drivers. The risk of accidents is particularly high at night due to inadequate lighting, locals said.

Residents expressed frustration that despite the bridge being located right beside the upazila administration complex and serving as an important communication link, no effective repair initiative has been taken for a long time.

They fear a major accident could occur at any time.

Locals urged the authorities to inspect the bridge immediately and assess its actual condition before any major accident or loss of life occurs. They also demanded prompt repair or reconstruction, depending on the assessment, and restrictions on the movement of excessively heavy vehicles.

Bijoynagar Upazila Engineer Md Ashiqur Rahman Bhuiyan said steps would be taken to repair the bridge as soon as funds are allocated.